V8 timing belt question

[Medvedko]

Hey guys, just got a quick question in regards to the timing belt tensioner for us V8 guys. My 2006 4runner is ready to hit 100K, I called a couple dealers to get an estimate and none of them recommended to do the tensioner for the timing belt. The car is 10yo and I don't know what else to say? The part apparently is like $60 and has to come off anyways?
Would you guys change that part out, since all the estimates are over $1000 can't imagine how $60 makes a difference?
They will be doing all the idlers, water pump, serpentine belt and so on.
Some of the videos I saw shows the old tensioner being reused and I cannot find any discussions about it on the forums?

Thanks for any help!

 

[pliance04]

For me id ask when they are taking it off, id ask the to inspect it if it has wear or extra play then id replace it. You should be ok with reusing it though, yet thats up to you.

 

[truckhigh]

probably a good idea if you replace with OEM and not if you do aftermarket.

 

[T4RFlinte]

I just bought this and found a reputable mechanic through Yelp to install it for $450 - Aisin TKT-021 Engine Timing Belt Kit with Water Pump https://www.amazon.com/dp/B008EEYWKI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awd_4HM7wb76DH7H9

 

[CXS]

Timing belt kit is the way to go. If the dealers don't agree find someone else to do the work.

 

[Medvedko]

Thanks for the fast replies !
The consensus seems to be to change the tensioner.
Honestly it would be preferred to do The whole job myself, I don't mind to buy any extra tools since the savings would still significantly out way paying someone else to do it
That's why were all here right...
Time is not on my side, my other car it's not worthy to do family duties and lastly I figured I'd support dealer or service shop to keep a roof over their head sense this is the only time the runner has seen a service facility.

If anyone had a timing belt done in Colorado especially around the Boulder area feel free to suggest a shop or dealer.
I would be happy to bring the shop an OEM kit and have them install it.

 

[V8Man]

I agree replace the tensioner. When the spring gets week it doesn't matter how new your belt is, it could slip! Get the kit.

 

[CXS]

If anyone had a timing belt done in Colorado especially around the Boulder area feel free to suggest a shop or dealer.
I would be happy to bring the shop an OEM kit and have them install it.

You'll have trouble finding someone good if you're bringing your own parts, warrantying a shops work typically requires them supplying the parts.

I had mine done a few weeks ago at a shop in Aurora that I trust and use frequently if you're interested. They're a rarity, quality works and honest.